A COCKERMOUTH charity with ambitious plans for the future is looking for a new chair to lead its Board of Trustees.

Kirkgate Arts and Heritage runs Cockermouth’s Kirkgate Centre entertainment venue as well as a host of other arts and heritage activities throughout West Cumbria.

The previous chair, Marion Bowman, is retiring after 8 years on the Board and her successor will guide the implementation of the charity’s plans for the future.

Marion said: “There is now a lot of new blood at the Kirkgate both on the Board and amongst the staff."

 “Our new General Manager Emma Heys is doing a great job with the day to day operations and there are lots of new initiatives in hand. The organisation is in great shape, having negotiated the pandemic well. It’s a good time to pass the baton to someone who can push on into the next phase of Kirkgate’s development as an essential fixture of life in Cockermouth and West Cumbria.

“Our 5 year strategic plan involves some new capital developments and income streams and we promise an interesting and rewarding experience for whoever takes on this role,” said Emma Heys. “We have a strong track record of working successfully to develop the part we play in Cumbria’s social and cultural life.”

The charity is advertising the vacancy for chair on its website www.kirkgateartsandheritage.org.uk .

Potential candidates are asked to email directors@thekirkgate.com to find out more.